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Stretching Feels Worse Before It Gets Better

Narratives
Don’t Quit Yet: This Is Part of the Process

Stretching Feels Worse Before It Gets Better

Sometimes when people start stretching, they actually feel tighter before they feel looser.

Wait… what? I thought stretching was supposed to make me feel better?

Why should I stretch at all then?
 
Because stretching reveals what’s been hiding under the surface.
 
That tight hip flexor didn’t just appear out of nowhere. It has probably been locked up for years. You just weren’t poking it until now.

Think of it like cleaning a messy room:

  • You start organizing (stretching regularly)

  • It looks worse before it looks better (you feel sore and stiff)

  • But progress is happening (your range of motion improves)

Your body is simply adjusting to new movement patterns and blood flow. That tension you feel has always been there. You're just finally listening to it.

So keep going. The dust settles. 

One day, you will realize, “Wait, sitting on the floor used to be awful… now I actually prefer it.”

Your body wants to adapt. It just needs the signal to do so.

If you need more flexibility in your life, my Full Body Plan might be right for you.

Stay Flexy,

David

Ready to keep the momentum going?

Scroll down to check out today’s challenge and see how you do!

Movement of the Day
Assisted Counter Dip Hold

The assisted counter dip hold strengthens the shoulders and triceps while improving shoulder extension and control.

Watch the demo here.

How to Do It:

Place your hands on a counter or bench with your feet under you for support. Lower yourself until you feel a gentle stretch in your shoulders, keeping your elbows tucked. Hold for 30 to 60 seconds.

Tips:

  • Use your legs to adjust the difficulty

  • Avoid shoulder pain or strain

  • Keep elbows pointed back, not out

Many of these exercises are featured in my 12-week flexibility plan.

If interested, reply “Foundation” for an awesome surprise.

Myth-Busting
MYTH: Stretching for longer is better

Studies have compared 15, 30, and 90-second stretches to determine which yields the best result, and 30 seconds has the edge by about 10%. Stretching longer isn’t wrong. But it may not be the most effective.

Stretch with Me
Start Your Day the Flexible Way

This gentle follow-along session is the perfect way to boost flexibility and shake off morning stiffness.

Subscribe to @WorkoutsbyDavid for more follow-along videos!

YOUR VOICE MATTERS
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Today’s Challenge
Step-Back Lunges

Step-Back Lunges

Step one foot back, lower into a lunge, and do 10 reps on each side.

Reply with your total count if you decided to go beyond the challenge.

Check out last week’s challenge here.

How did you do on the last challenge?

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Thanks For Reading
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